Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Google Pixel 8 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-01-29 | 2023-10-12 | Pixel 8 Pro is significantly newer, implying more modern technology and longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 161.5 × 75.6 × 7.8 mm | 162.6 × 76.5 × 8.8 mm | Pixel 8 Pro is slightly taller and thicker, may feel slightly bulkier in hand. |
| Weight | 200g | 213g | S21+ is lighter, potentially more comfortable for long holding periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Both have the same screen size. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1344x2992 | Pixel 8 Pro offers a significantly sharper display with more detail. |
| PPI | 394 | 489 | Pixel 8 Pro has a noticeably sharper image, especially visible in text and fine details. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer similar high-quality displays with vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 2400 nits | Pixel 8 Pro is significantly brighter, much better for outdoor viewing in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) | Pixel 8 Pro's newer chip offers more processing power, and better efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 1,142,984 | Pixel 8 Pro offers smoother performance and faster app loading, especially for demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Immortalis-G715s MC10 | Pixel 8 Pro's GPU offers better graphics performance in gaming and graphics-intensive applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 12MP (f/1.8, 1/1.76") | 50MP (f/1.69, 1/1.31") | Pixel 8 Pro's sensor is larger, has higher resolution and wider aperture allowing for better low-light performance and more detail. |
| Telephoto/Portrait | 64MP (f/2.0, 1/1.72") | None | S21+ has a dedicated telephoto camera for optical zoom and portrait shots. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 48MP (f/2.8, 1/2.55") | Pixel 8 Pro features a dedicated telephoto lens offering enhanced optical zoom capabilities. |
| Wide Angle/Macro | 12.2MP (f/2.2, 1/2.55") | 48MP (f/1.95) | Pixel 8 Pro offers higher resolution and wider aperture allowing for better low-light performance and more detail. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP (f/2.2, 1/3.2") | 10.8MP (f/2.2, 1/2.65") | Pixel 8 Pro has a larger sensor potentially capturing more light, however very similar |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@60fps | S21+ can record in 8K but Pixel 8 Pro has better video features like OIS/EIS, and Pro Mode. |
| DXOMark Mobile Score | 111 | 153 | Pixel 8 Pro achieves significantly higher scores, highlighting better overall camera quality. |
| DXOMark Selfie Score | Not Tested | 145 | Pixel 8 Pro provides high-quality selfie performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800 mAh | 5050 mAh | Pixel 8 Pro offers slightly larger capacity, potentially offering slightly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast | 30W Fast | Pixel 8 Pro has faster wired charging. |
| Wireless Charging | 15W | 23W | Pixel 8 Pro has faster wireless charging. |
| Battery Features | 15W Wireless Charging, Reverse Wireless Charging 4.5W, No charger in-box | 23W Wireless Charging | Both support reverse and non-removable battery. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 15) | Android 14 (upgradable to 21) | Pixel 8 Pro has a newer version and longer support of OS. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | WiFi 7 (802.11be) | Pixel 8 Pro supports the latest WiFi standard, offering faster speeds and lower latency. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | Pixel 8 Pro has a more up-to-date Bluetooth version for potentially more efficient connections. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GLONASS (L1) | Pixel 8 Pro supports QZSS for better accuracy in certain regions, whilst the S21+ has better dual-band support. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano/eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Both have Dual SIM and eSIM capabilities. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256GB | 128/256/512/1024 GB | Pixel 8 Pro offers much greater storage options. |
| RAM | 8GB | 12GB | Pixel 8 Pro has more RAM for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | S21+ has Hi-Res and Dolby Atmos but Pixel 8 has 3 mics. |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | Basic Fingerprint | Basic Fingerprint | Both have similar fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Pixel 8 Pro has the newer generation of protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer; Environmental: Barometer, Thermometer | Pixel 8 Pro has a thermometer for body temperature sensing; S21+ has a compass. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Dedicated Telephoto Camera: Offers optical zoom and portrait capabilities, providing more versatility for capturing distant subjects.
- 8K Video Recording: Supports higher resolution video, ideal for professional-level content creation.
- Slightly Lighter: May be more comfortable for long-term use or users who prioritize a light phone.
- Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio: A better experience for audiophiles.
Google Pixel 8 Pro Advantages:
- Significantly Newer Chipset: Google Tensor G3 offers significantly better performance, AI-driven features, and power efficiency than the older Exynos chip.
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, pixel density, and brightness create a much sharper and more vibrant visual experience, especially in bright conditions.
- Superior Camera System: Better standard sensor, larger telephoto lens, wider aperture in front/back cameras, much better DXOMark scores, superior dynamic range, better low-light capabilities and overall imaging.
- Better Software Support: Newer Android OS out of the box and expected to receive many more years of OS and security updates than the Galaxy S21+.
- Faster Charging: Supports faster wired and wireless charging, reducing downtime.
- Larger Battery and More RAM: Provides more power and better performance in more demanding situations.
- More Storage Options: Offers up to 1TB of internal storage, suitable for users with large media collections.
- WiFi 7: Next generation WiFi connectivity for faster speeds and more robust connections.
- Thermometer Sensor: Built-in thermometer for temperature sensing.
Trade-offs:
- S21+ : Loses on raw performance, camera quality, display tech, future software updates, and some charging speeds, but gives telephoto lens and 8K videos.
- Pixel 8 Pro: Slightly heavier and larger, no dedicated compass, more expensive than a used S21+.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Ideal Users:
- Users who prioritize a slightly lighter phone with the flexibility of a telephoto lens and 8K video recording.
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for a capable phone with a high quality display and reliable camera.
- Users who value Hi-Res audio and Dolby Atmos for an enhanced audio experience.
- Users who don't need the absolute latest hardware or the best low light performance, who have no need for a 1TB storage option.
Specific Use Cases for S21+ 5G:
- General photography in good lighting conditions.
- Occasional 8k recording.
- Users who enjoy listening to audio with enhanced audio features.
- Good all-round experience with a solid camera, display and performance for everyday use.
Google Pixel 8 Pro Ideal Users:
- Users who demand the best camera performance, especially in low light.
- Users who want the best display with superior brightness, resolution, and pixel density.
- Users who value a long-term software support and the latest software features.
- Users who prioritize high performance and smooth multitasking.
- Users who need a phone for heavy usage, and a device with more storage options.
- Users who like to record stable videos.
- Those interested in advanced AI features and integration with Google services.
Specific Use Cases for Pixel 8 Pro:
- Professional mobile photography and videography.
- High-performance gaming and video editing.
- Outdoor use in bright conditions.
- Extensive travel or anyone who needs a reliable and accurate GPS.
- Users who value the latest Google Software experience.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Samsung S21+ is significantly cheaper now as an older device, which makes it appealing for the lower price tag.
- The Pixel 8 Pro is more expensive, but offers much more modern technology and features, with a very strong camera, longer software support, and better performance. The higher price is justifiable for those who want top of the line features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- How important is camera quality and features? (If camera performance is your top priority, the Pixel 8 Pro is far better).
- How much do you value software support and the latest Android version? (The Pixel 8 Pro receives years more updates).
- What's your budget? (S21+ is cheaper used, while Pixel 8 Pro is more expensive).
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-conscious with some pro features: If budget is a concern and you want some pro features (telephoto lens, 8k video), the used Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G is a good option.
- Top-tier camera and performance is critical: If the best possible camera, latest features, future support, performance and overall experience are important, then the Google Pixel 8 Pro is the clear choice.
- General Use: If you are after a good daily phone that gets the job done with a good camera and screen, and dont value extreme features, the S21+ is a good option.
My Choice and Why
Given my priorities, I would choose the Google Pixel 8 Pro. My reasoning is:
- Camera Excellence: The Pixel 8 Pro offers significantly better camera quality, especially in low light, and its computational photography features are unmatched, ideal for my frequent photography needs. The 36MP higher resolution in the wide angle camera is a huge plus.
- Performance and Future Proofing: The Google Tensor G3 chip provides smoother performance, more advanced AI features, and longer software support, which makes the phone feel more up to date and relevant for a longer period.
- Superior Display: The much higher resolution, pixel density, and brightness make the Pixel 8 Pro display significantly better and more enjoyable to use for consuming media.
- Overall Experience: The Pixel 8 Pro is the all-round better device in almost every category.
While the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G has some advantages, like its telephoto camera and 8K video, these are outweighed by the Pixel 8 Pro's newer technology, vastly superior camera, and enhanced overall experience. I would willingly pay more for these benefits.
